By Bose
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As reported by The Nation on Wednesday 17 September 2025, the Nigerian Army has achieved another significant success in its ongoing efforts against violent groups across the country.
Military insiders confirmed that three armed fighters were eliminated while a key figure, Ifeanyi Okorienta, widely known as Gentle de Yahoo and identified as a commander of IPOB/ESN, was captured alive.
Further insights provided by investigative journalist Babajide Otitoju shed light on how the raid was carried out. According to him, soldiers had to march for nearly four hours across difficult terrain to reach the hideout without raising suspicion, preserving the element of surprise before storming the location at dawn.
On reaching the target area, the troops quietly encircled the compound where Gentle de Yahoo and his men were concealed. The situation escalated when gunmen hiding in the ceiling and on the roof opened fire on the soldiers, prompting an exchange of gunfire.
Otitoju noted that after those concealed in the ceiling refused to surrender, the troops set the building ablaze. As the flames spread, two women and three men tried to flee but were gunned down. Gentle de Yahoo’s deputy also attempted to escape by climbing the wall but was shot. Reports indicate that two women and two other men were killed in the clash.
The Army has since reiterated its commitment to intensifying counter-insurgency operations with the goal of restoring lasting peace to troubled communities.
